Oxford United's relegation worries were eased slightly as they held Middlesbrough to a goalless draw at the Riverside Stadium. Despite being at opposite ends of the Championship table, the visitors could have taken the lead at halftime, with Stanley Mills rattling the crossbar and Myles Peart-Harris hitting the post. Middlesbrough improved after the interval, but Oxford's defense, led by Jamie Cumming's impressive goalkeeping, held firm. Cumming made several crucial saves, including a point-blank stop from Tommy Conway, to deny Boro's promotion push. Oxford boss Matt Bloomfield was pleased with his team's performance, saying they imposed themselves on the game, especially in the first half. The result means Oxford close the gap to the safety line to five points, while Middlesbrough trail Championship leaders Coventry by three points. Boro's boss Kim Hellberg admitted his team should have scored, but took the point and moved on. Oxford will look to build on this result when they travel to Stoke, while Middlesbrough host Leicester City. The point earned by Oxford was well-deserved, with Callum Brittain's shot being blocked by several U's defenders in the dying minutes. Christ Makosso's misjudged header back towards his own goal also went just past the post, highlighting the visitors' determination to secure a point. Oxford's performance was a marked improvement from their recent defeat at Coventry, with Bloomfield's side showing more attacking intent. The draw was a fair result, given the chances created by both teams, and Oxford will hope to carry this momentum into their upcoming fixtures.